Zelensky Claims Chinese Troops Are Fighting for Russia, Urges U.S. and Global Response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Chinese soldiers have joined Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, calling for an international response—particularly from the United States.
Speaking Tuesday, Zelensky said Ukrainian forces had encountered and clashed with six Chinese troops in eastern Ukraine, capturing two of them during the fighting.
He added that Kyiv believes “there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier's units than just these two.”
Zelensky released a video of one of the captured soldiers and said he has instructed Ukrainian officials to seek a formal explanation from Beijing. He described China as now playing an active role in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
“This definitely requires a response,” Zelensky said. “A response from the United States, Europe, and all those around the world who want peace.”
The statement follows Zelensky’s recent confirmation that Ukrainian troops are now conducting operations inside Russia’s Belgorod region—marking a significant development in the conflict.
He emphasized that these cross-border missions are defensive in nature, aimed at protecting Ukraine’s own border areas in Sumy and Kharkiv.